Prior Lake residents have a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of local government through the 2026 Prior Lake Community Academy. The free six-week program is designed to give participants an in-depth look at city operations while fostering stronger connections between residents and city staff.

The Academy will meet Tuesday evenings from 5-7 p.m., April 7 through May 12, 2026. Each week highlights a different city department and features guest speakers, facility tours, and opportunities for attendees to engage directly with department leaders and staff. The program concludes with a graduation ceremony during a City Council meeting. 

Applications are being accepted through Friday, March 13. Interested residents can apply online: priorlakemn.gov/academy

Participants must be at least 16 years old and either live or work in Prior Lake. Due to the interactive nature of the program, attendees are expected to attend all six sessions. 

Weekly Schedule and Featured Departments

April 7 - General Government 
Speakers: Jason Wedel, City Manager, and Nicole Klekner, Finance Director

April 14 - Fire Department
Includes tour of Fire Station 1
Speaker: Rick Steinhaus, Fire Chief

April 21 - Parks & Recreation
Speaker: Steve Hart, Parks & Rec Manager

April 28 - Police Department
Includes tour of Police Station
Speaker: Liam Duggan, Police Chief

May 5 - Public Works & Engineering
Speaker: Nick Monserud, Public Works Director/City Engineer

May 12 - Community Development
Speaker: Casey McCabe, Community Development Director

The Academy is an excellent opportunity for residents to learn how decisions are made, how services are delivered, and how they can become more engaged in their community. Residents are encouraged to apply before the March 13 deadline: priorlakemn.gov/academy